24 September 2004

Electors who need to vote before election day on Saturday 9 October, are now able to cast their early vote in the 2004 federal election.

The Electoral Commissioner, Mr Andy Becker said that if electors were unable to vote on election day that they may be eligible to cast an early vote in person or by post.

Electors are eligible for an early vote if on election day they will be interstate or overseas, more than 8km from a polling place, approaching childbirth, seriously ill or caring from someone who is, or unable to attend a polling place due to religious beliefs, disability or work commitments.

"Electors who are eligible can cast an early vote in person at any of the 300 pre-poll voting centres or AEC divisional offices," Mr Becker said.

"The pre-poll voting centres will be open until Friday 8 October, the day before election day," he said.

To find the location and operating hours of your nearest pre-poll voting centre, visit the AEC website at www.aec.gov.au or call the AEC on 13 23 26.

Mr Becker said that if electors were unable to get to a polling place either before or on election day, they should apply for a postal vote now.

"Postal vote application forms are available from the AEC website at www.aec.gov.au or at any post office or AEC office," he said.

"Once the AEC receives the completed application form, the ballot papers and a declaration vote envelope are posted to the elector. It is essential that the completed ballot papers are back in the mail to the AEC by Friday 8 October."

For further information on casting an early vote, visit the AEC website at www.aec.gov.au or call the AEC on 13 23 26.

Further information:

Brien Hallett Ph. (02) 6271 4477
Assistant Commissioner, Mobile : 0413 274 798
Public Awareness, Media and Research

Phil Diak Ph. (02) 6271 4415
Director, Media and Communication Mobile : 0413 452 539